Justin Bieber's smoking photos spark backlash from fans online
What's the story
Pop star Justin Bieber is being slammed after he posted a series of pictures on Instagram in which he seems to be smoking from a bong.
The photos, shared on Monday (March 3), show the 31-year-old riding a bike and exhaling smoke while holding the device.
He was also seen leaning against his bike with the bong resting nearby.
Fans were concerned in comments, urging him to "set a better example" for his six-month-old son Jack Blues Bieber.
Fan reactions
Fans voiced concerns over Bieber's influence on his son
The photos have ignited a debate among fans, with many concerned for Bieber's infant son.
One user wrote, "@justinbieber you're a new father, something you've wanted. Set a better example for your son."
Another said: "I hope Jack doesn't have to be around all this smoke. A kid doesn't deserve it."
However, some fans defended the singer's actions, saying that many people smoke, and he didn't do it in front of his child.
Official silence
Bieber's representative declined to comment on the controversy
When contacted by PEOPLE, a rep for Bieber refused to comment on the ongoing controversy. This comes after recent rumors of Bieber's alleged drug use, which his team has strongly denied.
On February 25, he posted a video of himself rapping lyrics like "fly high," merely two days after his rep dismissed drug use allegations as "exhausting and pitiful."
The rep stressed Bieber is focusing on supporting his wife and son while concentrating on his health and art.
Past admissions
Bieber's past struggles with substance abuse
Bieber has openly shared his substance abuse struggles in the past.
In a 2021 GQ interview, he revealed he got to a stage where guards would check his pulse to ensure he was alive.
Earlier, in 2019, he confessed on Instagram that the pressures of being an entertainer pushed him to start using "heavy drugs" by 19.
Last month, after backlash over his tired look, TMZ reported Bieber had stayed up all night recording and caring for his restless son.